Author Archive

Jul 18

4 Amazing Private Patios Perfect For Your Next Vacation or Special Event

July 18th, 2012 - By

Luxury rental estates

have some fabulous furnishings and attractive design elements:

palatial master bedrooms, dining rooms fit for royalty, and entertainment rooms that seem to belong in a large movie theater, not in a private residence.

All these features are undeniably impressive. But what is even more impressive is what is done in the outdoor areas of some of these estates.

After all, any builder can put head-turning features inside, but it takes true talent and vision to incorporate the best of the outdoor world into the properties overall design.

This is why some estate’s patio areas and pool areas are so impressive.

They bring the best elements of nature and best views to the guests who  are staying at the estate.

Want an estate that can give you an incredible outdoor experience without making you sacrifice any luxury?

Here is where to look…

 

1. The Hilltop View Estate in Los Angeles, Ca

 

A famous property that sits on a secluded hill above the city.

The pool area and surrounding patio have hosted past Hollywood icons like Marilyn Monroe, Ava Gardner and Lucille Ball.

Hilltop is also a popular filming location and has appeared on an episode of the acclaimed cable series Mad Men.

Guests can lounge poolside and enjoy the classic patio while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the city below.

2. The Camelback House, in Phoenix, Arizona

 

Another estate that offers tremendous views.

The property’s infinity pool literally seems to flow off the side of the Camelback Mountains.

Guests can take a dip and, at the same time, enjoy the panoramas of Phoenix and Scottsdale below them.

Or, they can enjoy a cool, dry Southwestern evening by lounging on the House’s patio and enjoying the sight of the valley below lit up at night.

3. San Diego’s Bali Garden Estate

 

This estate takes the concept of open air rooms to a whole new level.

The Bali’s open air verandas are large enough that they can accommodate a party with up to 500 guests.

People can enjoy the cool breezes of the Pacific Coast while surrounded by a garden-like setting.

Another feature of this spacious patio area is the views.

This property sits on one of the highest points in San Diego, so it is possible to see the city from the open air patios and porches.

4. The Wind and Sea Estate in Big Sur, California

 

This estate does not rely on impressive design tricks for it outdoor areas.

Since it is located on the Central Coast of California, the scenery is amazing and picture-worthy.

Sure, guests could simply see the coast and the Pacific beyond from the building’s windows, but the Wind and Sea makes it very easy to appreciate the beauty of the area from several great open air spaces.

Palace-like patios are not part of the estate’s list of features, but a large fireplace sits on a rock outcropping, offering amazing views of the coast and the ocean.

An open air yoga studio is placed on a front deck space that overlooks the same coast.

These 4 properties prove that sometimes a patio, deck or veranda is the most impressive aspect of an estate.

Which one is your favorite?

 

Please share your thoughts in the comments below…

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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Jul 11

9 Ways to Optimize your Estate for Weddings & Events

July 11th, 2012 - By

Renting your estate can 

be a tricky proposition.

You’ll probably have concerns about its safety and about the possibility of damages.

However, a good event staff can alleviate these concerns.

In fact, hosting events can be a great way to earn extra cash from your estate without having to sell or rent it out entirely.

Of course, you will want to optimize your property and your pitch so that you can host an array of events in a variety of settings

Want to get the most out of renting your estate out for special events? 

 

Here are nine ways that you can increase your estates potential in the eyes of would-be guests and event planners.

1. Indoor and outdoor event spaces

 

Many wedding and event planners will want to know if there is an indoor space that can hold events.

Many large estates have huge lawns and gardens.

If you plan on advertising your estate’s best outdoor attributes, make sure that you have an indoor back-up or have an ongoing agreement with a tent company that can come in to erect tents if the guests’ should opt for that route.

2. Multiple locations 

 

Find every possible event location on your property.

People like choices, especially when they are planning what they consider a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Give them multiple options for where to hold their wedding, reunion or other special event.

3. Have your own list of vendors

 

Some wedding or event planners will want to bring their preferred caterers and decorators, but if you have your own list; either in-house or on retainer, you can offer a more-complete list of services to potential renters.

4. Seating arrangement plans and capacity numbers

 

Inevitably, potential clients will want to know what your capacity is, especially for indoor events.

Making up a seating chart with possible table layouts and also having capacity numbers on hand can give the impression that you are an experienced event venue.

Also, this can help renters make the final decision by allowing them to visualize their event taking place at your estate.

5. Portfolio

Another way to help potential renters visualize their event taking place at your estate is to have a portfolio of past events.

Perhaps you can give a slight discount to wedding parties if the bride and groom agree to let you have some of their wedding pictures to use in the portfolio that you show potential renters.

The more visual representations you can put in front of would-be customers, the better your pitch will seem.

6. Consider every event’s needs

 

You may have  great place for a ceremony and a reception on your estate, but what about the extras:

- a nice room where the bridal party can get ready

- plenty of restrooms

- a kitchen for caterers, and

- patios next to the event space for people who want some fresh air.

Consider every room that the event hosts may need and sell it as a complete package.

Of course, you’ll still focus on the main spaces, but make sure that the smaller peripheral are still attractive.

7. Don’t forget corporate events and filming

Most estates focus on weddings, family reunions and other special events.

Corporate events and filming are fantastic opportunities to consider.

Don’t forget these types of events when you are planing your portfolio, pitch, and seating charts.

8. Overnight options

 

Some estate owners opt to turn their estate into a bed-and-breakfast-style inn rather than renting it out for events.

Another option is to offer to rent the whole estate out for overnight guests or to keep a couple of rooms for special guests or for a couple who wants to start their honeymoon on site.

9. Parking space 

 

This is one of the most practical aspects of estate rental, but also one that is easy to overlook.

You have a beautiful estate with all the traits of a great wedding and event space, but you won’t be able to handle the 100 or so cars that guests will be needing to park.

A parking area, away from the event spaces, is an important feature of any event estate.

Having valet and shuttle services available for each event is a must.

This is just a start…

 

Please add to this list below in the comments.

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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Jul 10

5 Unique Money Saving Wedding Ideas

July 10th, 2012 - By

When you get married, 

it is easy to spend money.

Of course, everyone wants this once-in-a-lifetime event to be as special and memorable as possible.

Occasionally, would-be newlyweds resort to pouring on the  features until their wedding is overflowing with expensive extras.

Some people, however, want to keep things simple and have the focus be on the ceremony and the reception rather than on the decorations, cake, and food.

Unless you are a celebrity or someone with royal lineage, simple is often better when it comes to planning a wedding.

It saves money and is usually appreciated by guests who want a memorable experience instead of a gaudy spectacle.

Want to make your wedding a reasonably priced affair that is also unique and memorable?

Here are five simple ideas that can have amazing results…

1. Have an early wedding

 

Having your wedding early in the day allows you to get your event catered for cheaper.

A reception that starts at 11 a.m. or noon can consist of a lunch buffet or designated stations.

While sandwiches, soups and salads might seem out of place at an evening reception, they are perfectly fine for a noon-time party.

Catering will be cheaper, you won’t need to hire a large waitstaff and the food itself will not be as expensive as if you had a sit-down prepared meal.

At the same time, you can’t skimp on what you do serve (for example, make sure you accommodate for the meat & vegetarian eaters).

2. Limit the bar

 

It’s a party, so people will want to drink.

The cost of alcohol is often the single biggest expense of a wedding.

You don’t want to forego the beverages, and you still want people to have a good time.

However, costs can be limited by doing several things.

The first option is only to serve wine and beer.

A few people might want a pre-dinner cocktail, but most will be fine with these two cheaper choices.

Another option is to have a full bar before the meal and then switch over to wine and beer later.

Having an early wedding can also help here.

People aren’t going to drink as much at noon as they are at 8 or 9 p.m.

3. Have the centerpiece or other decoration double as wedding favors.

 

You can get wedding favors that can also be part of the décor by having centerpieces that can be broken down.

Then, each guest at a table can take away a small bouquet of flowers as their party favor.

Perhaps you could attach a small bag of candy to the bouquet.

Of course, this is a cost effective idea, since you are combining the flowers and favors.

It is also stylish and welcome, since people will be sitting with their favor in front of them for a large part of the reception, so they’ll have plenty of time to admire it.

4. Be creative with the entertainment

Everyone is going to expect dancing, but you don’t have to stop there.

A magician or clown would be out of place at a wedding, but what about a balloon animal artist for the kids or a caricature artist who can draw fun pictures of your guests.

These can add an unexpected element to the wedding reception that can really make it memorable for guests.

And the DJ?

Simply create a playlist on your iPod and hook it into the sound system.

5. A smaller cake and alternative desserts

 

A large, tiered wedding cake can cost hundreds of dollars (perhaps even $1,000+).

But does it taste any different than other forms of dessert?

Nope.

In fact, this is one area where you can have a little fun.

Opt for a cupcake or cake-pop dessert instead of the standard slice of cake.

Or just have a small display cake and then give guests a small slice plus some other sweet extras.

Even well-made cookies or pastries will be more welcome than a piece of dry cake served sans milk.

Have more to add?

 

Share some of your Money-Saving Wedding Ideas in the comments below…

 

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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Jul 3

Why You Should Host Your Family Reunion at an Estate

July 3rd, 2012 - By

Family reunions can be tricky events to plan.

Scheduling, logistics, and costs can make an event stressful instead of memorable.

Hosting your reunion at a rental estate may be the perfect way to avoid some of the potential reunion-planning pitfalls so that you can focus on what really matters:

mingling with  relatives and making connections with family-members who you haven’t seen in years.

Here are the reasons why renting an estate for your family reunion is a great idea…

 

It’s a neutral site

 

One of the initial questions relatives may ask when they first hear about a reunion is “where is it going to be?”

Choosing a site can be the most difficult part of the whole planning process.

Have a reunion in someone’s home and the host will be stuck with a majority of the work and stress.

Host it too far away and some people may not be able to attend.

Luckily, estates are located in every region of the US, so it is possible to choose an estate in a “neutral” location that won’t require anyone to travel farther than anyone else.

A reunion and vacation in one

 

Even if the family is looking forward to the reunion, the process of traveling to the event can be costly and time consuming.

For some people, a reunion may take the place of their regular vacation.

Choosing an estate that is near worthwhile vacation attractions (beaches, historic sites, etc) can allow attendees the chance to enjoy some standard holiday activities during their reunion trip.

In addition, many  estates have features and amenities that can give guest a vacation-like experience.

From swimming pools and gardens to hiking and horse-riding trails, estates are full of fun activities that can make reunion attendees feel like they are on vacation.

Onsite accommodations

 

Large estates can host some or all of the people who are attending the reunion.

These rooms can be used for members of the family who have to travel a long distance for the event.

Also, people may be more likely to attend if they do not have to arrange a hotel room or impose on someone else in the family who lives near the estate.

These onsite rooms are another rental estate feature that can turn a reunion into a vacation-like experience rather than a simple family event.

Plenty of space for a large family

 

Many estates are quite spacious and are able to host large events like weddings and corporate conferences.

This means that large families will feel comfortable and even the most distant relatives can be invited to the reunion.

Many estates located in suburban and rural locations have large grounds and features like pools and gardens.

This makes it possible for the reunion to include different events and activities that are suitable for the different age-groups.

Estates with catering and entertainment

 

Estates can make it easy to host a party.

Some estates have in-house caterers, wait-staff, musicians and decorators who can take care of the tasks that go along with hosting a reunion party.

Not only does this mean that everyone will be treated to a party put on by professional event vendors, it also means that everyone who attends the reunion will be able to enjoy the party without having to worry about cooking or decorating or (most importantly) cleaning up afterwards.  

Indoor and outdoor spaces

 

Many estates have both indoor and outdoor event spaces.

This means that the reunion events won’t have to be put on hold because of rain or other weather problems.

It also means that you can vary the types of events that are planned for your reunion.

An evening cocktail party, for example, could be held indoors, while a daytime picnic for the whole family could be held on the estate’s lawns.

Final Thoughts…

 

No matter what size of family reunion you are planning, choosing a rental estate as the venue for your event can make it a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Interested in Hosting Your NEXT Family Reunion at an Estate?

 

Tell us what you think in the comments below…

 

 

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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Jul 2

July Events Worthy of a Luxury Estate Vacation

July 2nd, 2012 - By

July is the height of summer.

For most people, this is a time of suntanning, beach-going, barbecues, lemonade, and air conditioning.

July is also one of the most event-filled months on the calendar.

Major sporting events, food, drink and music festivals, and widely-celebrated national holidays give excitement-seekers something to look forward to almost every day during the month.

Many well-attended events are crowded.

For some visitors, the crowds are part of the fun.

But, with full hotels, long lines at restaurants, and other issues, attending a July event can be a bit draining.

Renting a room at a vacation estate while you attend your chosen event will allow you a chance to recharge and enjoy some luxury without missing any of the fun.

These estates, focused on providing personalized vacation experiences for their guests, can lend an air of exclusivity and comfort to the overall experience of attending a July event.

Here are the 5 Best Events that July has to offer…

 

4th of July

 

In the US, the month of July is punctuated by the fireworks of Independence Day.

Every population center, from the largest city to the smallest town, has some sort of fireworks display.

Events with live music, parades, food shows, and flea markets take place all around the country.

Tourists in the Virginia and Washington DC area can get in touch with the history of the 4th by staying in one of the rooms in a historic estate like the Rosemont Manor.

This particular property’s Jeffersonian design and historic ambiance brings to mind the era when the US was first founded.

Many estates in the Virginia and Maryland area are located just a short drive from the Independence Day celebrations held each July in Washington DC.

The British Open

 

July is also the time when one of the world’s most prestigious golf tournaments is held.

The British Open, often held in the nation of Scotland (the birthplace of modern golf), draws the world’s best golf professionals, and also hordes of golf-loving spectators.

For true lovers of the game, the Open stands alongside the Masters as the most anticipated tournament of the year.

Rental estates in Scotland and around the UK can provide a sense of luxury and privacy that can turn a trip to the tournament into a vacation of a lifetime.

Newport Folk Festival

 

Newport, Rhode Island is a nondescript city on the Atlantic.

However, its annual music festivals bring some of the world’s most respected artists together.

The Newport Folk Festival has been around for more than 50 years.

Famed folk acts like Jackson Browne, Arlo Guthrie, Joan Baez, and Judy Collins have taken the stage at Newport in the past, though these classic acts are balanced by younger folk and roots rock performers such as My Morning Jacket, the Avett Brothers, and the Dap Kings.

The city overflows with visitors during the event, with people filling every campground and hotel room.

Rental estates throughout the central New England area can provide comfortable accommodations and some extra luxuries for people who want to appreciate the music but don’t want to fight the crowds.

Comi-Con International (San Diego)

 

Comi-con has become one of the most followed cultural events on the summertime calendar.

Held in San Diego each July, this meeting of sci-fi fans, comic book lovers, and pop art enthusiasts draws visitors from across the globe.

Comi-con has evolved from an offbeat conference into a heavily hyped event where new cultural phenomenon are introduced to the general public.

The rental estates of the San Diego area can provide a place for Comi-Con attendees to enjoy a bit of luxury and comfort after spending their days immersing themselves in the latest innovations of the comic, anime and sci-fi worlds.

The Taste of Chicago

 

Chicago is a food-lovers’ paradise, so it is no surprise that the Taste of Chicago is the world’s largest and most attended food festival.

Vendors cover the Windy City’s massive Grant Park for ten days, starting on the 4th of July.

More than 2.5 million people attend the event each year, and it has grown to include music performances and carnival rides (though the focus is mainly on the food).

The hotels near Grant and in downtown Chicago are always in high demand, making a rental estate a viable option for Taste attendees who want to enjoy a little space for themselves after negotiating their way through the hungry crowds day after day.

What’s your Favorite Event in July?

 

Share in the comments below…

 

 

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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Jun 27

How to Plan for RAIN on your Wedding Day

June 27th, 2012 - By

Many would-be brides and grooms 

dream about an outdoor wedding in a perfect garden, on a scenic lakeshore, or along a stretch of sandy seaside.

An outdoor wedding can be memorable for guests and romantic for the bride and groom.

Of course, spending your wedding day outdoors means that the weather can come into play.

Because the event has to be scheduled well in advance, it is impossible to get a weather forecast that can accurately predict the conditions.

Rain or other elements (heavy wind, lightning, etc.) can wreak havoc on outdoor wedding plans.

It’s imperative to have a bad weather plan for every outdoor wedding.

You can’t control the skies, but you can plan for inclement weather during your wedding day.

Here’s how:

1. Fashionable rain accessories:

 

It is easier to take the rain in stride if you are properly equipped.

Umbrellas and rain gear that match the colors used in your wedding (dresses and decorations) will look better than a standard yellow rain slicker or rainbow colored umbrella.

Having these on hand for the wedding party (at least) and for guest (if possible and within the budget) can make it easy to deal with wedding-day precipitation.

2. Plan B venue:

 

Any weather related worries can be alleviated by simply having a tent or other covered space that is nearby the planned outdoor wedding site.

Many people have indoor/covered receptions in a tented area or pavilion after an outdoor ceremony.

Dealing with rain in this case could be as easy as having a plan for holding the ceremony in this covered location (usually all that is required is rearranging the seating area).

3. Rain isn’t the only type of weather problem:

 

You might have a tent or some sort of canopy for a wedding reception, but occasionally, merely keeping the rain off of people’s heads won’t be enough.

Windy conditions can blow rain under a canopy or pavilion, making for a wet dance floor or a damp eating experience.

Even without rain, wind gusts can blow light decorations off of tables.

Sided tents, or tents with side flaps that can be dropped down if necessary, is the best way to deal with this.

Choosing an area that is semi-sheltered from the elements (near a stand of trees or behind a hill) can also be helpful.

4. Don’t forget the photographs:

 

Even people who host their weddings indoors will often step outside to take their wedding pictures.

Choosing an estate that has sheltered outdoor areas (porches, gazebos, etc) can help with this and can also give your guests some outdoor spaces even if the weather is wet.

5. Plan for the worst:

 

A light canopy can keep the rain and sun off, but a heavy rain can leave the ground under a canopy or even a sided tent wet and messy.

Guests wont be enjoying themselves if their high-heels are sinking into the ground.

The only way to truly avoid this rare-but-serious issue is to rent an indoor space in a building.

However, you can ask the tent rental company or the estate whose grounds your wedding will be held on what they can do in the worst type of weather situations.

These people are professionals and have probably dealt with bad weather situations before.

They can suggest a certain area of the estate where runoff water will not be a problem, or they can suggest a portable dance floor or other such features that can help deal with the “worst case scenario.”

6. Take the outdoors indoors:

 

People often plan of an outdoor wedding, and then try to take steps (tents, canopies, pavilions) to deal with the weather.

But what about finding an indoor space that can be opened up so that the wedding and reception have an outdoor feel?

Some estates have event rooms with French doors or numerous windows that can be opened so that the proceedings have an outdoor feel.

Have Any BAD Weather Experiences?

 

Please share them below…

 

 

 

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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Jun 26

Questions You Need To Ask When Choosing An Estate For Your Wedding

June 26th, 2012 - By

Choosing a venue for your wedding 

can be the most nerve-wracking part of the planning process.

Of course, there are other decisions to make as well.

Would-be newlyweds have to find a caterer, a DJ or band,  a photographer, and a wedding cake.

These other choices are important, but none of them are going to directly affect the wedding experience as much as the venue.

If the cake or the music don’t live up to expectations, it is possible to either overlook the problem or to find a remedy.

If the venue isn’t right, though, it is not as easy to overcome.

You can’t simply move your entire wedding to a different location.

That is why finding the right estate for your wedding is so vitally important.

When touring potential estates, asking certain questions can help you see potential pitfalls before it’s too late.

Here is what you need to know:

 

1. Capacity – An estate’s ambiance and amenities are important, but it is imperative to not forget the basics.

Your guests not only have to fit in the event space, they have to fit comfortably, with enough room for dancing, eating, lounging and whatever other activities will be part of your special day.

Would-be brides and grooms should go as far as seeing all the event spaces for themselves so that they can decide whether the capacity quote is accurate.

2. Facilities – Having enough room for guests is one thing, having the proper amenities and facilities is something else entirely.

Good estates will have ample restrooms, handicapped access (if necessary), sufficient parking and spaces for caterers and other vendors who will help put on the wedding.

3. Rules – Estates might have different rules that guests have to abide by.

These could range from things like not allowing candles in certain rooms (for safety reasons or to preserve fragile antiques) to not allowing guests to have access to certain indoor or outdoor areas of the property.

It is best to ask about restrictions upfront, so that any misunderstandings are avoided.

In addition to guest areas, make sure that areas used for food prep and photographs will be accessible on the day of the event.

4. Décor – Many people want to have décor that features a consistent theme and colors.

To achieve the desired look, some decorations may have to be put inside the estate.

Some estates have in-house decorators who can handle this, but others do not.

If an estate doesn’t decorate for you, it is good to make sure that your decorators will be able to have access before the ceremony and reception and, more importantly, that they will not be breaking the estate’s rules by placing the decorations around the property.

5. Fees – Estates might require their renters to use in-house services (for catering, music, etc).

Wedding parties that rely on outside vendors might be charged an additional fee.

This is not always the case (most estates go out of their way to accommodate guests’ desires), but it is better to be sure than to find that the wedding is beyond your budget because of unforeseen fees.

Bringing your own alcohol can be another major source for fees.

Many estates make much of their event money from serving alcohol, so they may charge some sort of corkage fee for weddings that bring their own beverages.

6. Other events – Larger estates may host more than one event during a weekend.

It pays to ask if there will be any other events and where they will be hosted.

While most estates are pretty good at separating their guests, it can be frustrating if noise or crowds from another event interfere with your wedding.

The estate may not have another event scheduled at the time that your wedding will take place, but one could be scheduled at a later date, so it is best to proceed like another event will be taking place (if the estate hosts more than one event) and then making sure that the other event spaces are sufficiently separated from your own.

 

Finding out these details early can help you make the best choice for your wedding venue.

Have a few more to add?

 

Please share them below…

 

 

 

 

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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Jun 19

Celebrity Wedding Ideas That You Can Copy For Your Own Wedding

June 19th, 2012 - By

Celebrity Weddings can be highly publicized affairs with amazing features, the best catering, decorations, flower arrangements and photographer that money can buy.

It is easy to look at the wedding ceremonies of the rich and famous and get inspiration for your own nuptials, but actually implementing their ideas might put you outside of your budget.

The Answer

 

The answer is to find those celebrity wedding features that do fit with your wedding spending plan.

Basing your whole wedding on the pictures of some movie star’s ceremony or reception would be foolish, but taking tasteful tidbits from the spotlight wedding and injecting them into your own ceremony and reception can be a great way to add some extra glamor and style to your special day.

Here are some examples of wedding features that can be translated from celebrity wedding to your nuptials.

Kim Kardashian

 

The now infamous wedding of Kim Kardashian and NBA star Kris Humphries was filled with over-the-top elegance.

While couples might not be able to afford Kardashian’s eight tier wedding cake (which was reportedly close to six feet tall) or other ultra-luxury features of the reality star’s reception, one of the cheaper but more memorable aspects of this wedding can easily be fit into almost any wedding budget.

One of the weddings highlights was the heart-shaped Krispy Kreme doughnuts that were served to guests at the end of the reception.

This is a relatively easy option that won’t cost much (unless you have thousands of guests) and can really stand out in guests’ minds as a cute, unique highlight.

Truly frugal brides and grooms don’t even need to go with Krispy Kremes – any heart-shaped bakery items will do (as long as they are tasty).

Kelsey Grammer

 

Comedy star Kelsey Grammer was another celeb who went with a unique dessert choice for his wedding to flight attendant Kayte Walsh.

The couple’s cake was a carrot cake (perhaps an unusual choice for a wedding).

The cake was spectacular, almost five feet tall, but the extras, mini ice cream cones and smoothies, were what set the dessert serving apart from the usual “piece of cake” experience that wedding guests expect when the time for dessert roles around.

This is another example of unique “little extras” stealing the spotlight.

The mini ice cream cone dessert, or some other charmingly unexpected treat, can really make a standard wedding dessert into one of the most memorable parts of the reception.

Coco Rocha 

 

Supermodel Coco Rocha hosted her wedding in the Loire Valley in France.

The ceremony and reception were held in a large historic castle.

Surely at some point, every bride and groom at least imagine having a similarly classic venue for their wedding.

However, they don’t need to go to a remote corner of France to find this type of wedding location.

Luckily, estates around the world can provide a similar imagination-come-to-life setting for special events.

Wedding Favors 

 

Giving favors at the end of a wedding can be a tricky thing to do.

One idea is to opt for some variation of the heart-shaped doughnut creation mentioned above or something similar.

Another option would be to choose a simple gift from a classy, well-known brand.

When Jason Priestley and Naomi Lowde wed in the Bahamas, they gave guests Fortnum and Mason Teas.

This 150-plus year old brand has been the official grocer to England’s royalty and any of its products carry a certain sense of high-class with them.

Even the simplest (and cheapest) gift from such a brand will be welcomed by guests.

Creative Decor

 

An estate wedding opens the door for more-creative decoration ideas.

When Barbra Streisand married James Brolin, their nuptials took place at home, and the couple filled their swimming pool with floating candles and faux flowers.

This is another example of a relatively cheap feature that can become one of the most memorable aspects of your wedding for guests.

Final Thoughts… 

 

Celebrity weddings, at least those that aren’t completely over-the-top, can provide inspiration for soon-to-be-brides-and-grooms.

While no one would want to (or could afford to) replicate an entire movie-star wedding, taking small features and using them in your own ceremony and reception can add a bit of glamor and style to your special day.

Do you have any Celebrity Wedding Ideas for the taking?

 

Please share them below.

 

 

 

 

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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Jun 14

TOP 8 Luxury Honeymoon Destinations

June 14th, 2012 - By

In recent years, destination weddings are becoming more and more popular.

What better place to have your wedding then at the same location as your honeymoon!

Lets explore several other benefits, along with EWE’s TOP 8 Locations to have your Destination Wedding & Honeymoon:

 

1. Greece:

 

Blue Caves Villas is absolutely gorgeous, secluded in the hill tops of Greece.

This exotic estate provides a perfect blend of luxury and tranquility.

Click on the link to find out more information about renting this estate for your destination wedding & honeymoon!

 

2. Indonesia

 

Why not stay at your very own 5-Star Private Luxury Resort in Bali and be treated like royalty.

Click on the link to find out more information about renting this estate for your destination wedding & honeymoon!

 

3. Caribbean:

 

Jet away to your own mediterranean retreat, over-looking the picturesque turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

Click on the link to find out more information about renting this estate for your destination wedding & honeymoon!

 

4. South Africa:

 

Built in the 1930s, this Stunning Estate has maintained all of the charm of the era and is famous for its amazing herd of Rothchild Giraffes that freely roam the property.

This is truly a treat and a once in a lifetime experience!

Click on the link to find out more information about renting this estate for your destination wedding & honeymoon!

 

5. Spain:

 

Almiral De La Font is a fabulously restored masia that provides a unique experience;

offering high-tech modern comforts, while retaining its historic beauty and charm.

Click on the link to find out more information about renting this estate for your destination wedding & honeymoon!

 

6. Costa Rica:

 

Hacienda Pinilla is a luxury villa that is ideal for enhancing your destination wedding experience.

Click on the link to find out more information about renting this estate for your destination wedding & honeymoon!

 

7. Mexico:

 

Casa Majani Luxury Villa is an amazing estate with a dreamy backdrop,

setting the stage for the perfect intimate destination wedding.

Click on the link to find out more information about renting this estate for your destination wedding & honeymoon!

 

 

8. Hawaii:

 

Sit back and enjoy your own exclusive 5-Star Estate at Paradise Point, Kailu Bay on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu, offering classic beachfront elegance at its finest.

Click on the link to find out more information about renting this estate for your destination wedding & honeymoon!

So WHY are destination weddings & honeymoon locations becoming more popular?

 

1. It’s a honeymoon and wedding in one

2. You get to travel to an exotic location with your friends and family

3. The weddings are viewed as being more intimate since only your close friends and family will most likely be able to attend

4. It is usually a lot easier to plan; reducing a lot of the undo stress that is carried around with tradition weddings


We would LOVE to hear your favorite Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations?

 

Please share your thoughts below…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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Jun 13

Celebrity Vacation Destinations that NORMAL people can Enjoy?

June 13th, 2012 - By

Deciding that you want 

to take a vacation is easy.

Choosing where to go is another story, however…

For people who know what type of vacation they want (a beach vacation, for example),

the sheer number of choices can cause a lot of second guessing and over-thinking the destination selection process.

How about getting a recommendation?

 

This could help, but you might end up learning that your tastes and the tastes of the person who recommended a vacation spot are totally different.

So why not look to celebrities?

 

These are people who have the financial stability and time to go wherever they want.

So the places that they choose are, arguably, the most attractive and desirable destinations in the world.

Celebrities’ favorite vacation places are bound to have world-class facilities, stylishness and, most of all, privacy.

These are the qualities that  most people, famous or not, are looking for when they head out on vacation.

Where are these celebs’ favorites?

 

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

 

This island, neighbor to Tahiti, is a playground for the rich and famous.

It is pricey, that’s for sure, but also completely idyllic.

A popular form of accommodation on Bora Bora is the water bungalow.

These luxurious bungalows, built on stilts above the impossibly-clear waters of the South Pacific, are far from basic grass-roofed huts.

They can have things like private jacuzzis, satellite television, and even private butlers and chefs.

The palm-fringed white sands and upscale resorts make this the dream destination for those seeking the perfect tropical getaway.

Stars like Nicole Kidman and Eva Longoria have recently spent time on Bora Bora.

 

Saint Barts

 

Saint Barthelemy is an overseas department of France.

This quiet, upscale Caribbean paradise has hosted numerous celebrities over the years, with its private beaches, exclusive resorts and stylish vibe really setting it apart form other Caribbean destinations.

On Saint Barts, it is common to come across models that you might recognize from the pages of glossy fashion magazines.

Stars like Jay Z and Mariah Carey are Saint Barts regulars, as are actor Hugh Jackman, Matt Damon, and even famous athletes like New York Yankees slugger Derek Jeter.

 

Saint Tropez, Cote d’Azur, France

 

This is the most glamorous of the amazing menu of seaside destinations on the French Mediterranean.

The beaches, clear waters, and palms create the quintessential landscapes that people come to this part of Europe seeking.

However, the overwhelming sense of stylishness really sets Saint Tropez apart.

This town was first made famous by the likes of Brigitte Bardot, who made it her warm weather playground.

The stars might spend time in nearby Cannes during its famous film festival, but they can be seen on the beaches and cafes of Saint Tropez any time of year.

Tom Cruise, Pamela Anderson, Bono, Beyonce, and Penelope Cruz have spent time on the spectacular beaches of Saint Tropez, as have virtually every Europe-based move star you could ever think of.

 

Las Vegas

 

Sin City is a favorite destination for everyone from celebs to blue collar workers.

A collection of  world-class nightclubs, casinos, and restaurants headed by famous chefs draw the world’s most famous people.

The Wynn Las Vegas is the resort of choice for stars like Britney Spears, Paris Hilton, and Tom Cruise.

This upscale casino resort is basically a city within a city.

Its nightclubs, restaurants, theater and full sized casino, complete with sports-book, mean that people never have to step outside the front door.

The Wynn, like other upscale casinos in Vegas, won’t come cheap.

There are no $49 rooms here (expect to spend $200+ per night, unless you happen to come across a promotion).

 

Cabo San Lucas

 

The sands of Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas, usually simply referred to as Cabo, are perfect for US-based celebrities who want to get away but don’t want to spend more than a couple hours in the air.

Five star resorts and white sand beaches have drawn the likes of George Clooney, Sheryl Crow and Jennifer Aniston.

Sure, there is a happy-go-lucky party scene on Cabo, but it is easily avoided by those staying at any of the better four and five-star resorts in the area.

 

What do you think…?

 

Share some of your favorite celeb-like vacation destinations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

Jamie is the Co-Founder and President of Estate Weddings and Events. Jamie and EWE have been featured in The New York Times, The Baltimore Sun, Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, WE TV, Premier Homes, and many other publications. When Jamie is not managing Luxury Events at EWE, you can find her traveling the world. Her favorite destinations visited are Laos and the Maldives.You can follow her on Google+ here.



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